Mariners: Mitch Haniger hitting well, fantasy add

Mariners’ outfielder Mitch Haniger is hitting well since returning from the DL. If you are looking for average and some power, he is someone to target.

The Seattle Mariners are still in the hunt for a second wild card spot in the American League. With all of the injuries to their starting rotation, it’s a surprise they’re just 3.5 games out. One of their big contributors has been outfielder Mitch Haniger, and you should look to pick him up.

Haniger missed the first half of August while recovering from a face contusion after receiving a pitch to the face. Before the injury, he was hitting .255/.358/.425 with seven home runs, 24 RBI, 36 runs and a 57:26 K:BB ratio. Not bad for a 23rd-round pick in ESPN leagues.

He’s been a better hitter since returning on August 19. In his last 20 games, 19 starts, Haniger has a .342/.358/.633 line with five homers, 17 RBI and 11 runs scored. He also has 18 strikeouts and just two walks.

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Haniger’s OBP stayed the same, mostly because of his 27 hits in 81 plate appearances. However, the high strikeout rate prevented it from being any higher. The lack of plate discipline could affect his batting average down the stretch but he’s making good contact.

In the same span, Haniger has nine multi-hit games, including two 3-for-4, 1 HR games in his last three starts. Hitting atop the Mariners lineup will give him plenty of opportunities to see good pitches.

Haniger has spent 36 games as the No. 2 hitter, in front of Robinson Cano, Nelson Cruz and Kyle Seager. He has spent some time in the No. 6 or 7 spot. Even there, hitting behind those guys is a pretty good spot, too.

With just 18 games left for most teams and the fantasy baseball season coming to a close, any bit helps. Haniger is a good outfielder that can help your batting average and give you an extra home run during the week. Haniger has good gap power as he has 19 doubles this season.

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Because of his injuries, Haniger has just 78 games played so far this season. As a result, he is widely available in ESPN leagues. He is owned in 27.4 percent of leagues. With teams starting to clinch playoff berths, some stars may start resting. I would try to add players from teams still competing, like Haniger.